Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was burdened with anxiety, uncertainty, and a decent amount of fear. I was on the verge of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who had always been somewhat timid, plunging into such a significant life transition felt daunting. Now, reflecting on my initial academic year, I recognize a path filled with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting and challenging hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a potential student, you might be concerned about this aspect too—and I completely empathize. On the day of my move into the dormitory, just a few days before the term commenced, I was so anxious that I spent the whole day in my room, too jittery to step out and meet others. Fast forward to today, and I can honestly say I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, both within my program and outside of it. What contributed to this? Simply initiating small conversations with individuals who were equally new and unsure as I was.
The most significant takeaway from that experience is this: take the plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous opportunities—ice-breakers, events, and shared experiences—will make it simpler to connect with others. And most crucially, be yourself. Imperial is bustling with diverse individuals, and you’re likely to encounter others who share your interests and values.
Another significant change was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university-level content was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term presented even more hurdles. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to others who appear to be handling things more smoothly. I certainly had moments of self-doubt. But one thing that helped me persevere was the realization that I wasn’t alone—many others were experiencing similar feelings.
If there’s one piece of guidance I could offer any new student, it would be this: don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether it’s from your classmates or the teaching staff, reaching out can make a significant impact. Everyone is navigating their own learning journey, and no one anticipates that you will have all the answers from the outset.
Speaking of faculty, I can’t praise the teaching team in the Materials department enough. They truly care about students’ success and well-being, and they’re always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. One bold step I did take early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position provided me the opportunity to connect with faculty members and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. Cultivating those relationships was incredibly worthwhile, and I’d encourage any student to seize opportunities to engage with staff—they’re there to assist you in succeeding.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety and doubts I harbored at the start were normal—and oftentimes unwarranted. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone. I’ve also discovered how to juggle the demands of academic life with enjoyment and self-care.
Looking forward, I feel more assured and eager about what lies ahead. If you’re about to embark on your own university adventure, remember that it’s perfectly normal to feel apprehensive—but also recognize that you’re capable of more than you realize.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London